RESUMEN El propósito del presente estudio fue determinar la dieta del gremio de aves insectívoras mediante el análisis de excretas y colecta de insectos. De agosto 2018 a enero 2019 se aplicó búsqueda-intensiva, corte-sacudida de ramas, redes de niebla, análisis de heces e identificación de insectos. Se determinó riqueza (Jacknife1), similitud (Jaccard) y diversidad (Shannon-Wiener). Se aplicó Kruskal-Wallis, X 2 , análisis de regresión poisson (ARP) y correspondencia canónica (ACC). Jacknife1 presenta una media de 39 familias. Jaccard muestra una similitud del 19.88 %. Shannon-Wiener presenta una diversidad de H´ = 3.09. Kruskal-Wallis evidencia diferencias en la riqueza (0.0423*) y diversidad (0.0148*). La prueba de X 2 muestra que no se registró la riqueza de familias de insectos teóricamente presentes (P < 0.05). Los ARP muestran que seis ordenes, dos familias, dos tipos de insectos (corte y sacudida); un orden, una familia y un artículo (heces) tienen efecto sobre la abundancia de aves. Los ACC muestran la conformación de siete (corte y sacudida) y seis (heces) grupos que muestran relación entre las aves y los órdenes, familias, tipo de insecto y artículos registrados. Se exhibe simpatría trófica en algunas de las aves registradas, favoreciendo al control biológico de insectos del tipo plaga y parásitos.

ABSTRACT The purpose of the present study was to determine the diet of the insectivorous birds through the analysis of excreta and insect collection. From August 2018 to January 2019, search-intensive, branch cutting-shaking, mist-netting, scat analysis and insect identification were applied. Richness (Jacknife1), similarity (Jaccard) and diversity (Shannon-Wiener) were determined. Kruskal-Wallis, X2, Poisson regression analysis (PRA) and canonical correspondence (CCA) were applied. Jacknife1 shows a mean of 39 families. Jaccard shows a similarity of 19.88 %. Shannon-Wiener shows a diversity of H' = 3.09. Kruskal-Wallis shows differences in richness (0.0423*) and diversity (0.0148*). The X2 test shows that the richness of insect families theoretically present was not recorded (P < 0.05). PRAs show that six orders, two families, two insect types (cut and shake); one order, one family and one item (feces) have an effect on bird abundance. The CCAs show the conformation of seven (cutting and shaking) and six (feces) groups that show relationships between birds and the orders, families, insect type and items recorded. Trophic sympatry is exhibited in some of the birds recorded, favoring the biological control of pest and parasitic insects.

ABSTRACT. Oceanographic fluctuations and changes in ocean productivity directly affect the abundance and distribution of prey species, which in turn, affect the population status of their predators. In order to have a better understanding of this predator-prey relationship, the aim of the present study was to analyze the diet of the South American Sea Lion Otaria flavescens (Shaw, 1800) in two rookeries of the San Matias Gulf, in northern Patagonia (Argentina). A total of 52 scat samples of O. flavescens were collected in the Promontorio Belén colony and 35 in Caleta de los Loros during the late spring of 2011. The analysis of the samples indicated that at both localities fish occurred in 100% of scats with prey remains, followed by cephalopods (32.3%) and crustaceans (21.4%). The fish Raneya brasiliensis (Kaup, 1856) constituted the main prey taxon, both in terms of occurrence and numerical abundance. The octopod Octopus tehuelchus (d’ Orbigny, 1834) and squids of the genus Doryteuthis constituted the dominant cephalopod prey. It is concluded that sea lions focused their foraging activity on those species of demersal and benthic habits, associated with coastal and shelf waters. Furthermore, this study reports for the first time the feeding habits of the South American Sea Lion colony of Promontorio Belén, second in population size of Río Negro province.

RESUMEN. Lobos marinos de un pelo sudamericanos Otaria flavescens ¿buenos indicadores de cambios espaciales y temporales relativos en la distribución y abundancia de los recursos marinos? Las fluctuaciones oceanográficas y los cambios en la productividad del océano afectan directamente a la abundancia y distribución de las especies presa, que a su vez afectan al estado de la población de sus predadores. Con el fin de tener una mejor comprensión de esta relación predador-presa, el objetivo del presente trabajo fue analizar la dieta del lobo marino de un pelo sudamericano Otaria flavescens (Shaw, 1800) en dos apostaderos del Golfo San Matias, en Patagonia norte (Argentina). Se colectaron un total de 52 muestras de fecas de O. flavescens en el apostadero de Promontorio Belén y 35 en Caleta de los Loros durante la primavera tardía de 2011. El análisis de las muestras indicó que en ambas localidades los peces ocurrieron en el 100% de las muestras con remanentes alimentarios, seguidos por cefalópodos (32.3%) y crustáceos (21.4%). El pez Raneya brasiliensis (Kaup, 1856) constituyó el principal taxón presa, tanto en términos de ocurrencia como de abundancia numérica. El octópodo Octopus tehuelchus (d’ Orbigny, 1834) y los calamares del género Doryteuthis constituyeron los cefalópodos presa dominantes. Se concluye que los lobos marinos centraron su actividad forrajera en aquellas especies de hábitos demersales y bentónicos, asociado a aguas costeras y de plataforma. Además, este estudio analiza por primera vez los hábitos alimenticios de la colonia de lobos marinos de un pelo sudamericanos en el apostadero de Promontorio Belén, segunda en tamaño poblacional de la provincia de Río Negro.

Abstract Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) are an invasive alien species that can negatively impact natural ecosystems due to the potential of predation, competition, or disease transmission. Nonetheless, few studies assess the ecological impacts of these species on protected areas. Our objective was to determine the diet of free-ranging dogs, through scat analysis within the Nevado de Toluca Flora and Fauna Protection Area, Estado de México, Mexico. A total of 130 scat samples from dogs were collected with the help of a bloodhound. Prey items identified in the scats were classified into 6 food categories: wild mammals, birds, insects, livestock, vegetative matter and human-derived food. Wild mammals were the most frequent category (FO = 62.3%; RO = 40.3%). We present the first evidence of 8 rodents, 1 shrew, and 2 skunk species as part of the diet of free-ranging dogs. Some identified preys are species endemic to Mexico with special protection status according to Mexican law. We recommend following the global-level policies aimed at reducing the population of dogs in Protected Areas.

Resumen Los perros (Canis lupus familiaris) son una especie exótica invasora que puede impactar negativamente a los ecosistemas naturales debido al potencial de depredación, competencia o transmisión de enfermedades. No obstante, existen pocos estudios que evalúan los impactos ecológicos de esta especie en áreas protegidas. El objetivo de la presente investigación fue determinar la dieta de perros de vida libre a través de análisis de materia fecal, dentro del Área de Protección de Flora y Fauna Nevado de Toluca en el Estado de México. Se colectaron 130 muestras de perros de vida libre las cuales fueron colectadas con la ayuda de un sabueso entrenado. Los ítems alimenticios se clasificaron en 6 categorías: mamíferos silvestres, aves, insectos, ganado, materia vegetal y desechos derivados de humanos. La categoría de mamíferos silvestres fue la más frecuente (FO = 62.3%; RO = 40.3%). Se presenta la primera evidencia de 8 especies de roedores, 1 especie de musaraña y 2 especies de zorrillos como parte de la dieta de los perros de vida libre. Algunas de las presas identificadas son especies endémicas de México con algún estatus de protección de acuerdo con la NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010. Recomendamos seguir las políticas globales destinadas a reducir la población de perros en áreas protegidas.

Abstract AIMS The aims of this study were to investigate and characterize the anthropometric, nutritional, genetic, psychological and sleep variables of slalom kayakers, and to verify the correlation of these variables with the slalom kayakers’ performance. METHODS Ten elite Brazilian team slalom kayakers participated of this study. Nutritional analysis was made by the Food Record (three days), 24 Hour Dietary Recall and Food Frequency Questionnaire. The ACE I/D, AGTMet235Thr, ACTN3R577X and BDKRB2+9/-9 were genotyped for genetic profile. The Profile of Mood States (POMS) and Sports Competition Anxiety Test (SCAT) were applied to investigate the psychological variables. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Epworth Sleep Scale (ESS) and Morningness-eveningness questionnaire (MEQ) were used for sleep traits analysis. Performance trials were performed on a white-water course with 24 gates, and finish time was considered as the variable related to performance. RESULTS Significant correlations were obtained between Performance Time Trial and %Fat (r=0.77), Energy (r=-0.75), Protein (r=-0.76), Carbohydrate (r=-0.72), Vitamin B6 (r=-0.87), Vitamin A (r=-0.82), Thiamine (r=-0.77), Riboflavin (r=-0.71), Magnesium (r=-0.86) and Phosphorus (r=-0.74) intake, besides the Fatigue mood domain (r=0.73) and the SCAT score (r=0.67). Athletes genotyped with the I, T, R and +9 alelle also presented better performances. CONCLUSIONSIn summary, the novel results provided by this study reinforce the necessity of considering several aspects during athlete development in order to achieve better performance in competitions.

Abstract: The Potosino-Zacatecano Plateau (PZP) is characterized by a system of hills surrounded by ridges where the bobcat is the only wild felid; however, there is no information on the basic ecology of this species in this region. The objective of this work was to determine the diet and abundance of the bobcat in Cerro del Peñón Blanco, San Luis Potosí. The diet was inferred from the analysis of prey remains in feces; in addition, the minimum number of bobcats in the study area was estimated by camera traps placed in Cerro del Peñón Blanco, San Luis Potosí. Diet composition was expressed as percentage of occurrence. Individual bobcats were identified by the distinctive morphological characteristics of each. Seventy five scat samples were collected and analyzed. The diet included 14 taxa, with the rabbit Sylvilagus audubonii as the species most frequently consumed. The mouse Peromyscus spp. was the rodent species with the highest frequency of occurrence; however, no single species was dominant. We identified seven bobcat individuals: three males, three females and one of unknown sex. The bobcat diet allows inferring how this feline uses landscape in the study area, feeding on its main prey in foothills fragmented patches and complementing its diet with prey present in Peñón Blanco. The study area still provides sufficient prey base for the bobcat.

Resumen: El altiplano Potosino-Zacatecano (APZ) se caracteriza por presentar un sistema de elevaciones rodeadas de lomeríos donde el gato montés es el único felino silvestre, sin embargo, no existe información sobre la ecología básica de esta especie en la región. El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar la dieta y abundancia del gato montés en el cerro del Peñón Blanco, San Luis Potosí. La dieta se obtuvo del análisis de los restos de presas halladas en excretas y se estimó el número mínimo de gatos monteses en la zona de estudio por medio de trampas-cámara colocadas en el Cerro del Peñón Blanco, San Luis Potosí. La composición de la dieta se expresó como porcentaje de aparición. Los distintos individuos se identificaron por la presencia de características morfológicas distintivas. Se colectaron y analizaron 75 excretas. La dieta estuvo compuesta por 14 taxa, siendo la especie más común el conejo Sylvilagus audubonii. El ratón Peromyscus spp. fue la especie de roedor con mayor frecuencia de aparición, sin embargo, ninguna especie fue dominante. Se identificaron siete individuos de gato montés, tres machos, tres hembras y uno de sexo desconocido. La dieta del gato montés permite identificar como este felino usa el paisaje en la zona de estudio, alimentándose de su presa principal en las zonas bajas fragmentadas y complementando su dieta con presas presentes en el Peñón Blanco. La zona de estudio aún cuenta con una base de presas adecuada para el gato montés.

Abstract: The bobcat (Lynx rufus) is one of the carnivores most widely distributed in North America, coexisting with wild and domestic animals. Parasites reported for the bobcat in the United States and Canada are generalists typical of the order Carnivora. In Mexico, studies on parasites of carnivorous mammals are scarce due to their elusive nature, which makes difficult to obtain biological samples. Considering the available information about the bobcat in its northern distribution range, the community of intestinal parasites of this species was expected to comprise generalist parasites. The primary aim of this study was to determine the composition of the community of intestinal parasites in the bobcat (Lynx rufus) inhabiting areas surrounding the city of Queretaro, and investigate whether seasonal differences exist. The study was carried out in four sampling sites where Lynx rufus had been previously reported. Tracks were surveyed for scats in the rainy and dry seasons. Scats were analyzed using the Ritchie method supplemented with coprocultures and larval migrations. Parasites were identified based on specialized literature and prevalence was expressed in percentage. A X2 test and a non-metric multidimensional scaling analysis were conducted to compare parasite species composition between sites and between seasons. A total of 83 scat samples were collected, 53 in the rainy season and 30 in the dry season. A total of seven parasite species were identified: Trichuris vulpis, Physaloptera praeputialis, Toxascaris leonina, Toxocara cati, Strongyloides stercolaris, Ancylostoma sp. and Uncinaria stenocephala. The prevalence of parasitized scats in both seasons was 75.9 %, with 73.6 % and 80 % in the rainy and dry seasons, respectively. The X2 test showed no significant differences between seasons (X2 = 0,553, d. f. = 1, P = 0.457). No differences were found in parasite species composition, either between seasons or between localities, according to the nonmetric multidimensional scaling analysis. The parasitic load of the bobcat in areas surrounding Querétaro is composed of generalist nematodes that are typical of carnivores. T. vulpis is recorded for the first time in L. rufus for Mexico. A high prevalence of S. stercolaris was observed, suggesting an interaction with human populations and domestic and wild animals, as reported in other studies on this same carnivore. This study is one of the first reports published on intestinal parasites of L. rufus in anthropic areas of Mexico, finding that the composition and structure of the parasite communities of this carnivore may indicate tolerance to disturbance derived from human activities.

Resumen: El gato montés (Lynx rufus) es uno de los carnívoros con mayor distribución en Norteamérica, coexistiendo con animales domésticos y silvestres. Los parásitos que han sido reportados para el gato montés en Estados Unidos y Canadá son generalistas típicos del orden Carnivora. En México, los estudios sobre los parásitos de mamíferos carnívoros son escasos por su naturaleza elusiva que dificulta la obtención de muestras biológicas. Considerando la información disponible del gato montés para el norte de su distribución, se esperaba encontrar que la comunidad de parásitos intestinales de esta especie estuviera compuesta por parásitos generalistas. El objetivo general de este estudio fue conocer la composición de la comunidad de parásitos intestinales del gato montés (Lynx rufus) en la zona conurbada de Querétaro, así como determinar diferencias estacionales. El estudio se realizó en cuatro puntos de colecta donde se ha registrado previamente Lynx rufus. Se realizaron recorridos para búsqueda y colecta de excretas durante las temporadas de lluvias y secas. Las excretas se analizaron con la técnica de Ritchie, complementando con coprocultivos y migraciones larvarias. La identificación de parásitos se realizó con literatura especializada y su prevalencia fue expresada en porcentaje. Se hizo una prueba de X2, así como un análisis de escalamiento multidimensional no métrico para comparar la composición de especies entre sitios y entre temporadas. Se colectaron 83 excretas en total, 53 en lluvias y 30 durante secas. Se identificaron en total siete especies: Trichuris vulpis, Physaloptera praeputialis, Toxascaris leonina, Toxocara cati, Strongyloides stercolaris, Ancylostoma sp. y Uncinaria stenocephala. La prevalencia de excretas parasitadas en ambas temporadas fue de 75.9%, en lluvias 73.6% y en secas el 80%. La prueba de X2 no demostró diferencia significativa entre temporadas (X2 = 0.553, g. l. = 1 P = 0.457). No se encontró diferencia en la composición de especies entre temporadas ni entre localidades de acuerdo al análisis de escalamiento multidimensional no métrico. La carga parasitaria del gato montés en la zona conurbada de Querétaro está constituida por nemátodos generalistas de carnívoros. Se registra por vez primera a T. vulpis en L. rufus para México. Se encontró una alta prevalencia de S. stercolaris que podría significar una interacción con las poblaciones humanas, animales domésticos y silvestres según lo establecido en otros estudios con este mismo carnívoro. Este estudio es uno de los primeros publicados sobre parásitos intestinales de L. rufus en ambientes antropizados de México, en donde se encontró que la composición y estructura de las comunidades parasitarias de este carnívoro podría indicar la tolerancia a la perturbación por las actividades humanas.

The sea otter (Lontra felina) lives along the rocky coastline exposed southeast Pacific between Peru (6°S), Cape Horn, Chile (56°S) and States island, Argentina. This native carnivore is classified as Vulnerable in the Red Book of Terrestrial Vertebrates of Chile. Between September and November 2004 we assessed their diet through fecal analysis and records of food remnants. We used a quantitative overlap index to test for coincidental similarity between the 2 analyses, and also we applied a survey to fisherfolks at Caleta El Manzano de Pucatrihue, southern Chile, to learn about the perception they have of L. felina impact on local fishing. Based on an analysis of 35 faeces the diet was represented by 60.8% of crustaceans, 32.4% of fishes and 6.7% of shellfishes presences. Of 150 food remnants the prey corresponds to 55.3% of crustaceans, 44.0% of molluscs and 0.7% of birds. The two analyses carried out had a slow similarity (= 0.35 ± 0.22). L. felina preys on resources exploited by artisanal fishing, but fishing gears are not damaged by this marine mammal. A 66.7% of the fishermen said that otters not affect their fishing, while 30.0% said the opposite; holding as cause the consumption by L. felina on the same resources exploited by them (e.g., Concholepas concholepas). Although this mammal does not cause significant damage to local fisheries still exists at present, however, illegal hunting of this otter in the study area. The reasons for this action ranging from the sale of their skin until his killing by a simple recreation.

La nutria marina (Lontra felina) habita a lo largo del litoral rocoso expuesto del Pacífico sudeste entre Perú (6°S), Cabo de Hornos, Chile (56°S) e Isla de Los Estados, Argentina. Este carnívoro nativo está clasificado como especie Vulnerable en el Libro Rojo de los Vertebrados Terrestres de Chile. Entre septiembre y noviembre de 2004 se evaluó su dieta a través de análisis fecal y registro de restos alimenticios. Se utilizó el índice de sobreposición cuantitativo para probar coincidencia entre ambos análisis, también aplicamos una encuesta a los pescadores artesanales de la Caleta El Manzano de Pucatrihue, sur de Chile, para conocer la percepción que tienen de L. felina y su impacto sobre la pesca local. Sobre la base del análisis de 35 fecas los crustáceos representan 60,8%, peces un 32,4% y moluscos un 6,7%. De 150 restos alimenticios los crustáceos corresponden a 55,3%, moluscos a un 44,0% y aves a un 0,7%. Los dos análisis efectuados tuvieron una baja similitud (= 0,35 ± 0,22). L. felina depreda sobre recursos explotados por la pesca artesanal; sin embargo, las artes de pesca no son dañadas por este mamífero marino. Un 66,7% de los pescadores manifestó no ver afectada su pesca a causa del animal, mientras un 30,0% afirmó lo contrario; sosteniendo como causa el consumo por parte de L. felina sobre los mismos recursos explotados por ellos (e.g., Concholepas concholepas). Aunque este mamífero no causa daños significativos a la pesca local existe todavía (2003-2004) la caza ilegal de esta nutria en el área de estudio.

Background: WNT4 is a protein that plays a crucial role in ovarian differentiation and development in mammals, with a relatively well understood function in mammalian gonadal differentiation. The role of WNT4 in teleost fish; however, remains unclear. In the present study, cDNAs of Wnt4a and Wnt4b were cloned and characterized in the spotted scat. The expression patterns of two Wnt4 genes in the gonads at different stages of development and in fish after treatment with 17a-methyltestosterone (MT) were investigated. Results: The tissue distribution showed that Wnt4a was expressed in various tissues, including the gonads, gills, spleen, brain, and fin. Interestingly, Wnt4b not only was expressed in the gills, brain, and spleen, but also was obviously expressed in the ovary. During gonad development, Wnt4a was highly expressed in the testis at stage I and Wnt4b was mainly expressed in the ovary at stages II-III. After MT treatment, the mRNA expression of Wnt4a increased significantly up to 40 d, and the transcript level of Wnt4b decreased at 20 d. Conclusions: These results suggest that Wnt4a may be involved in gonad development and plays a role in the process of spermatogonial proliferation. Our results also demonstrate that Wnt4b is not only expressed in the nervous system, but also in the ovary and it may be involved in ovary development of the spotted scat.

ResumoForam examinadas 42 fezes de lobo-guará em uma área desprotegida e perturbada do Cerrado no sudeste do Brasil. Nós identificamos seis táxons de helmintos endoparasitas, sendo o Filo Acantocephala e a Família Trichuridae os mais prevalentes. A alta prevalência da Família Ancylostomatidae indica uma possível transmissão por cães domésticos, que são abundantes na área de estudo. No entanto, nossos resultados indicam que as espécies de endoparasitas encontradas não são diferentes daquelas observadas em áreas protegidas ou menos perturbadas, o que sugere uma alta resiliência do lobo-guará e seus parasitas aos impactos humanos ou um cenário comum de transmissão de doenças de cães domésticos para um canídeo selvagem, seja em áreas protegidas ou desprotegidas do sudeste do Brasil.

AbstractWe examined 42 maned wolf scats in an unprotected and disturbed area of Cerrado in southeastern Brazil. We identified six helminth endoparasite taxa, being Phylum Acantocephala and Family Trichuridae the most prevalent. The high prevalence of the Family Ancylostomatidae indicates a possible transmission via domestic dogs, which are abundant in the study area. Nevertheless, our results indicate that the endoparasite species found are not different from those observed in protected or least disturbed areas, suggesting a high resilience of maned wolf and their parasites to human impacts, or a common scenario of disease transmission from domestic dogs to wild canid whether in protected or unprotected areas of southeastern Brazil.

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Predation may have important effects on prey populations, especially when the prey species is considered endangered such as the volcano rabbit (Romerolagus diazi). Understanding the importance of the volcano rabbit in the coyote and bobcat diet is important to recognize the possible impact that thesepredators can have on the populations of this endangered rabbit. METHODS: We studied the food habits of the coyote and during three climate seasons in the Chichinautzin Biological Corridor through scat analysis. We obtained the frequency of occurrence and consumed biomass of each identified prey item. Additionally we estimated the relative abundance of some of the potential prey species for these two predators and analyzed the relationship between prey abundance and the use of the prey found on the diet of these two predators. RESULTS: The most common prey species and with the greatest biomass contribution on the diet of coyotes and bobcats were the rabbits of the genus Sylvilagus sp., followed by the volcano rabbit. We did not find differences in the frequency of occurrence of prey or in the consumed biomass between the studied seasons, indicating that the diet of both predators remains constant throughout the year. Prey selection analysis showed that both predators selected Sylvilagus rabbits, while volcano rabbits are consumed less than their availability in the environment. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: Reduced consumption of the volcano rabbit according with their availability on the environment by coyotes and bobcats could be the result of the selection of larger prey and the nocturnal behavior patterns of both predators. Even though we did not find that both predators are selecting volcano rabbits on their diets, our results showed that coyotes and bobcats are important predators for R. diazi. It is necessary to determine the potential number of volcano rabbits consumed by both predators in order to understand the impact of these predators on this endangered species.

Resumen: INTRODUCCIÓN: La depredación puede tener efectos importantes en las poblaciones de las presas, siendo este efecto mayor cuando la presa es una especie en peligro de extinción. Entender la importancia del conejo zacatuche en la dieta del coyote y del lince es importante para conocer el impacto que estos depredadores pueden estar ejerciendo sobre las poblaciones de este conejo catalogado en peligro de extinción. METODOLOGÍA: Se estudió la dieta del coyote y el lince durante tres temporadas climáticas en el Corredor Biológico Chichinautzin a través del análisis de sus heces fecales. Calculamos la proporción de aparición y el porcentaje de biomasa total consumida de cada presa identificada. Además, se estimó la abundancia relativa de las presas potenciales en el ambiente y se analizó la relación entre las abundancias de predadores con la presencia de presas que son componentes de sus dietas. RESULTADOS: La presa con mayor frecuencia de ocurrencia y la que mayor biomasa aporta a la dieta de ambos depredadores fue Sylvilagus sp., seguida por Romerolagus diazi. No se encontraron diferencias significativas en la frecuencia de ocurrencia de las presas, ni para la proporción de biomasa consumida entre las diferentes temporadas analizadas. Este resultado indica que la dieta de ambos depredadores se mantiene constante durante el año. El análisis de selección de presas mostró que ambos depredadores seleccionan a conejos del género Sylvilagus, mientras que los zacatuches son consumidos en menor proporción que su disponibilidad en el ambiente. DISCUSIÓN Y CONCLUSIONES: El menor consumo de zacatuches por el coyote y el lince de acuerdo a su disponibilidad en el ambiente podría ser el resultado de la selección de presas de mayor tamaño y a los patrones de comportamiento mayormente nocturnos de ambos depredadores. A pesar de que no se encontró selección hacia los zacatuches por parte de coyotes y linces, los resultados mostraron que los coyotes y linces son depredadores importantes de R. diazi. Es necesario determinar a través de estudios específicos el número potencial de zacatuches consumidos por los depredadores y su impacto en las poblaciones de la especie.

Brown hyaenas (Hyaena brunnea) were introduced to Shamwari Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape Province during 2002, but their feeding ecology is poorly understood. Feeding observations of brown hyaena by field guides and the collection of 31 scats from the study area took place over an 11 month period. Standard techniques were used to analyse the scats and identify prey items present. Ten dietary categories were identified from the scats, with a mean of 3.2 dietary categories per scat. Large mammal remains were found in 30 of the 31 scats, with kudu being the most abundant (61.0% of scats). Overall the two methods indicated at least 14 mammal species being fed on by the brown hyaena. The presence of mainly large mammal remains and invertebrates (in 38.7% of all scats), together with the feeding observations of mainly large mammals by field guides, suggests that brown hyaena in Shamwari are mainly scavengers and that sufficient carrion is available, thereby reducing the need for them to hunt. A 52.0% occurrence of plant matter was found in the scats, suggesting that plant material is an important component of their diet. Further studies are underway to investigate the feeding ecology of brown hyaena in Shamwari and surrounding areas. CONSERVATION IMPLICATIONS: Comprehensive scat analysis over a number of years, monitoring of individual movement patterns and population numbers of brown hyaena in and around conservation areas will be beneficial in quantifying resource use of this species.

The black bear (Ursus americanus) has been present in North America at least during 3 million years ago. Climatic changes from last glaciation drove black bears to seek refuge in two regions of North America, one in the Pacific side and other in the Atlantic side, shaping the present genetic structure of this ursid. Literature reports attempting to confirm these hypotheses have not included samples from Mexico. Therefore, this research examined the genetic variation of black bear populations from all over its range, to find out if Mexican populations of the black bear belong to the phylogenetic branch of the Pacific clade or to that of the Atlantic clade. DNA sequences of the mitochondrial control region were obtained from scat samples collected in northern Mexico and from data downloaded from GenBank. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed the existence of one clade west of the Rocky Mountains and a second clade to the east of the same mountains, including the mountains themselves. In addition, our data also showed that Mexican populations of the black bear are nested into the phylogenetic branch of the Atlantic side. This research thus supports that genetic structure of Mexican black bears may have been influenced by climatic changes of the last glaciation period. Further research is needed to better understand genetic distances between eastern and western populations of Mexican black bears. Conservation efforts to protect black bears in Mexico must consider their origin and phylogenetic relationships.

El oso negro americano (Ursus americanus) ha estado presente en Norteamérica durante al menos 3 millones de años. Las fluctuaciones climáticas que se suscitaron durante la última glaciación forzaron a los osos negros a refugiarse en dos áreas geográficas específicas tanto en el Pacífico como en el Atlántico, lo cual influyó en la estructura demográfica genética actual de este úrsido. Estudios que han intentado confirmar esta hipótesis no han incluido muestras de México. Por lo que este estudio presenta un estudio filogenético del oso negro a lo largo de toda su distribución geográfica, y así determinar si las poblaciones mexicanas del oso negro pertenecen al linaje filogenético del clado del Océano Pacífico o a el clado del Atlántico. Las secuencias de la región control del DNA mitocondrial fueron obtenidas de muestras de excrementos recolectadas en el norte de México y de datos descargados de GenBank. El análisis filogenético confirmó la presencia de un clado al oeste de las Montañas Rocallosas y un segundo clado que incluyen a las montañas Rocallosas y al este de estas. En adición, nuestros resultados sugieren que las poblaciones mexicanas de oso negro se encuentran inmersas dentro del linaje del Atlántico. Esta investigación soporta la hipótesis de que la estructura genética del oso negro mexicano fue influenciada por los cambios climáticos suscitados en la última glaciación. Futuras investigaciones son necesarias para tener un mejor entendimiento de las distancias genéticas presente entre las poblaciones de oso negro del este y del oeste de México. Los esfuerzos de conservación para proteger las poblaciones de oso negro en México deben considerar su origen y sus relaciones filogenéticas.

La dieta de Puma concolor es ampliamente conocida a lo largo de su distribución, sin embargo, en Colombia no se ha realizado ningún estudio sobre sus hábitos alimentarios. Entre 2007-2009, la dieta de puma fue analizada en el Parque-Nacional-Natural-Puracé, sur occidente de los Andes colombianos. Ítems alimenticios de cinco especies presa fueron identificadas en su dieta; el venado conejo (Pudu mephistophiles) es la presa más importante. Como herramienta complementaria para la identificación de huesos y pelos contenidos en heces (n=60), se instalaron seis cámarastrampa en lugares estratégicos, para registrar la presencia de pumas y presas potenciales. El descubrimiento de la dependencia de los pumas con el pudú sugiere una única adaptación de los pumas de paramo a la disponibilidad de presas y resalta su importancia como reguladores de las poblaciones presa. Estos resultados contribuyen a incrementar el poco conocimiento sobre la ecología de pumas de los Andes, de sus presas y de las especies en su conjunto en Colombia. Obtener información sobre el grupo de presas de pumas en diferentes ecosistemas, es esencial para entender los requerimientos regionales para su supervivencia y diseñar acciones de conservación que permitan seguir/evaluar las necesidades particulares de áreas protegidas en toda su distribución.

Food habits of Puma concolor (Carnivora: Felidae) in the Parque Nacional Natural Puracé,Colombia. Neotropical puma (Puma concolor) diet is scarcely known, in particular that of mountain dwelling individuals from Northern South America. This is the first study on pumas from the paramo and the first puma diet analysis for Colombia. The puma diet was studied from 2007 to 2009 in the Puracé National Park in the South Colombian Andes. Paramos are unique neotropical high altitude ecosystems which store and regulate water, and are currently threatened by agricultural expansion and climate change. Seven latrines were monitored for three years and scat collected, washed and dried. Items in scat such as hair, bones, claws and others were separated. Hairs were inspected by microscopy and compared to voucher hair museum specimens. Bone fragments, claws and teeth were also compared to museum collections and identified wherever possible. Additionally, six cameras were set along game trails to document puma and potential prey presence in the area. Food items from five species were identified in 60 puma scats; Northern Pudu (Pudu mephistophiles) was the most important prey in their diet. A total of 354 camera trap-nights photographed a male and female puma, Northern pudu and Spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus). The main conclusion suggests a strong dependence of puma on the threatened and mysterious Northern Pudu in paramo habitats. This behavior might reflect restricted prey availability in the high Andes mountains of Colombia, and highlights the plasticity in the puma diet. Conservation actions in the paramo should thus, focus on focal wild species, and in particularly those that show a relationship, such as the one evidenced here with the dependence of puma on Northern Pudu. These findings contribute to increase the little known ecology of Andean puma populations and the species as a whole in Colombia. Baseline data on puma prey populations in different ecosystems throughout their range, is critical to understand the regional requirements for survival, and design conservation actions, to follow and evaluate the need for particular protected areas along their geographical gradients. Rev. Biol. Trop. 59 (3): 1285-1294. Epub 2011 September 01.

Scat analysis is a valuable tool for the description and quantification of mammal diets. However, estimating the number of prey eaten using prey remains found in feces is difficult mainly due to differential digestibility of prey. In this context, we performed feeding trials with captive ocelots, Leopardus pardalis (Linnaeus, 1785), to evaluate the time needed until complete elimination in feces of different prey such as rodents and birds. Rodents took up to five days and birds two days until complete elimination. Our results are consistent in showing that elimination time differs for different prey and some prey may take a long time to be expelled, inducing errors in dietary studies.

O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a 'ansiedade traço' e 'ansiedade estado' e sua relação com o desempenho pré-competitivo e competitivo no voleibol. O caso estudado foi uma equipe de voleibol feminina infantil. Utilizou-se como instrumentos de medida os protocolos CSAI-II e o SCAT. A coleta de dados ocorreu nos locais de treinamento e durante os Jogos Colegiais 2005. Para a análise dos dados utilizou-se estatística descritiva e o teste "t" de Student. Os resultados indicaram: 'ansiedade traço' pré-competitiva e competitiva sem diferenças significativas, porém na 'ansiedade estado' observou-se diferença significativa (P=0,05) para o componente cognitivo. Verificou-se um equilíbrio entre os componentes da 'ansiedade estado' na fase preparatória pelas vitórias em todos os jogos, o que se mostrou diferente na fase competitiva, onde a equipe sofreu duas derrotas. Conclui-se que a ansiedade pode afetar o desempenho das atletas na situação competitiva nesta modalidade e categoria estudada.

The objective of this study was to analyze trait anxiety and state anxiety and their relation with pre-competitive and competitive performance in volleyball. The case studied was a infantile female volleyball team. The measure instruments used were the CSAI-II and SCAT protocols. Data collection occurred in training stations and during High School games 2005. Data analysis was performed through descriptive statistics and Student's "t" test. The results indicated: pre-competitive and competitive trait anxiety with no significant differences, however in relation to state anxiety a significant difference was observed (P=0,05) in the cognitive component. A balance was verified between state anxiety components in preparation phase because of the winnings in all games, fact that was different in the competitive phase, where the team lost two times. It is concluded that anxiety can affect athletes' performance in competitive situation in the modality and category studied.